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Best Social Media Marketing Associate Degree Programs, Jobs, and Salaries

Simone Du Toit - May 17, 2022


Are you interested in a career in social media marketing? We have put together detailed information on the best social media marketing associate degrees to give you a head start in landing your dream job. We have included the types of social media marketing associate degrees, admission requirements, tuition, and core courses. We will also discuss the best social media marketing associate degree jobs, salaries, and job outlooks.

Today’s age of digital marketing features some exciting trends for the future . Social media marketing in general aims to increase the brand awareness of a company, thereby increasing its market share and overall revenue, among other valuable ways social media helps businesses grow . Let’s take a look at the details and benefits of an Associate Degree in Social Media Marketing.

Where Can I Get an Associate Degree in Social Media Marketing?

You can get an Associate Degree in Social Media Marketing from many reputed schools across the country. Some of the best schools offering social media marketing associate degrees include Augusta Technical College, Chippewa Valley Technical College, and East Los Angeles College. We will take a close look at all the benefits of the top programs later in this guide.

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What Schools Offer the Best Social Media Marketing Associate Degrees?

  • Augusta Technical College
  • Chippewa Technical College
  • North Shore Community College
  • Point University
  • East Los Angeles College

What Are the Admission Requirements for an Associate Degree in Social Media Marketing?

The admission requirements for a social media marketing associate degree may include an interview with the admissions counselor. Other standard requirements include submitting an application and paying application fees. Most require high school transcripts and any other applicable education transcripts, and some schools require placement tests.

Some schools may have academic requirements, such as completing specific courses in high school and attaining a GPA between 2.0 and 2.75. Standardized tests, like the SAT and ACT, may also be required. Additionally, some schools may require you to sign an honor code or submit letters of recommendation.

Social Media Marketing Associate Degree Admission Requirements

  • Complete an interview with an admissions counselor
  • Complete and submit an application and pay the application fee
  • Submit GPA, SAT, ACT, placement tests, or other academic achievements
  • Send high school transcripts and other applicable education records
  • Submit a letter of recommendation or statement of purpose

How to Get a Social Media Marketing Associate Degree

You get a social media marketing associate degree by fulfilling all the graduation requirements. This includes completing the appropriate courses to fulfill the credit requirements. Earning an associate degree typically requires the completion of 60 credits, which generally takes two years to achieve. Schools also require a minimum GPA for all courses completed and sometimes an internship or capstone project.

How Many Credits Do You Need for an Associate Degree in Social Media Marketing?

You need between 60 and 62 credits for an Associate Degree in Social Media Marketing. Credits are the points or hours assigned to courses on topics that form part of your degree requirements. A course will have, for example, three credit hours, counting as three credits. Core topics and degree-required credit hours are combined to make up the 60 to 62 credits.

Social Media Marketing Degree Requirements

  • Degree-focused social media marketing courses accounting for between 15 and 39 credits
  • Elective social media marketing courses accounting for between three and 12 credits
  • General education courses accounting for between 15 and 31 credits
  • An internship or capstone project
  • A minimum GPA

Best Social Media Marketing Associate Degree Programs and Schools: Overview

School Program Accreditation
Aims Community College Associate of Applied Science in Marketing Management Higher Learning Commission
Augusta Technical College Associate of Applied Science in Marketing Management Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Chippewa Valley Technical College Associate Degree in Marketing Higher Learning Commission
East Los Angeles College Associate of Arts in Marketing Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges
Ensign College Associate of Science in Social Media Marketing Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
Fox Valley Technical College Associate of Arts in Marketing Higher Learning Commission
Madison Area Technical College Associate Degree in Marketing Higher Learning Commission
North Shore Community College Associate of Science in Digital and Social Marketing New England Commission of Higher Education
Seminole State College Associate of Science in Social Media and Marketing Higher Learning Commission
Ventura College Associate in Science in Social Media Marketing Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges

Best Schools for Social Media Marketing: Top Social Media Marketing Associate Degree Programs

The social media marketing associate degree programs listed below will help provide access to high-paying jobs through skills in marketing research, sales strategies, digital marketing strategies, social media campaigns, and search engine optimization. These high-ranking programs require 60 to 63 credits for degree completion.

1

Aims Community College

Greeley, CO

Aims Community College traces its roots back to 1967 and enrolls about 6,000 students each year. The school offers over 200 degree and certificate programs in higher education at its four campuses. It also offers online classes.

Associate of Applied Science in Marketing Management

This Associate of Applied Science Degree requires 63 credits in courses including human resource management and the principles of advertising. Business education courses include the fundamentals of accounting and corporate ethics and social responsibility. General education courses cover economics, social issues, and technical writing.

Associate of Applied Science in Marketing Management Overview

  • Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
  • Tuition and Fees: $8,694/63 credits (in state); $28,791/63 credits (out of state)
  • Required Credits: 63 credits
  • Program Length: 2 years
  • Learning Format: On-campus
  • NCES School Graduation Rate: 35%

Associate of Applied Science in Marketing Management Admission Requirements

  • GPA: No minimum (some scholarships require a minimum GPA)
  • Standardized Tests: SAT/ACT
  • Application Fee: None
  • Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
  • Other Requirements: College Student Inventory

Applying to Aims Community College

  1. Submit an online or in-person application
  2. Activate your Aims Community College account
  3. Apply for financial aid (if applicable)
  4. Complete the College Student Inventory and submit high school and other education transcripts
2

Augusta Technical College

Augusta, GA

Augusta Technical College started in 1961 and currently has about 4,000 students enrolled across its four campuses. The school provides 197 programs consisting of 46 degrees, 40 diplomas, and 111 technical certificates of credit. ATC has been recognized with the Rick Perkins Award for Excellence in Technical Instruction for several consecutive years. The school’s student-to-faculty ratio is 23:1, allowing for individualized instruction.

Associate of Applied Science in Marketing Management

This marketing management associate degree requires 63 credit hours and includes core subjects like mathematics modeling and social and behavioral science. Degree concentration topics include digital technologies in business and marketing principles. This college experience will prepare you for entry-level positions as a marketing professional or in retail management and sales.

Associate of Applied Science in Marketing Management Overview

  • Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
  • Tuition and Fees: $100/credit + $416 in fees for each credit
  • Required Credits: 63 credits
  • Program Length: 2 years
  • Learning Format: On-campus
  • NCES School Graduation Rate: 33%

Associate of Applied Science in Marketing Management Admission Requirements

  • GPA: No minimum
  • Standardized Tests: ACT/SAT or placement testing
  • Application Fee: $25
  • Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
  • Other Requirements: Georgia residency or verification of lawful presence in the United States

Applying to Augusta Technical College

  1. Submit the “Beginning Student” application
  2. Take the ACCUPLACER placement test or submit SAT, ACT, COMPASS, ASSET, or ACCUPLACER scores (ACCUPLACER is temporarily suspended)
  3. Submit high school and any other education transcripts
  4. Complete and submit proof of Georgia residency or verification of lawful presence in the United States
  5. Apply for financial aid through FAFSA (if applicable)
3

Chippewa Valley Technical College

Eau Claire, WI

Established in 1912 and with over 7,000 students currently enrolled, Chippewa Valley Technical College offers 119 programs, 38 certificate programs, and 15 apprenticeships. The school boasts that 92 percent of its graduates gain employment within six months of graduating. CVTC offers a 14:1 student-to-faculty ratio and is one of 16 schools that are part of the Wisconsin Technical College System.

Associate Degree in Marketing

This Associate Degree in Marketing requires 60 credit hours in core subjects such as social media strategies and digital communities, customer relationship management, and strategizing and authoring a marketing plan. The program prepares students for careers such as social media coordinator, community relations manager, and sales or design representative.

Associate Degree in Marketing Overview

  • Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
  • Tuition: $143.45/credit (in state: Wisconsin and Minnesota); $215.18/credit (out of state)
  • Required Credits: 60 credits
  • Program Length: 2 years
  • Learning Format: On-campus, online
  • NCES School Graduation Rate: 47%

Associate Degree in Marketing Admission Requirements

  • GPA: No minimum
  • Standardized Tests: None
  • Application Fee: $30
  • Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
  • Other Requirements: None

Applying to Chippewa Valley Technical College

  1. Submit an online application and pay the application fee
  2. Submit high school transcript
  3. Apply for scholarships and financial aid (if applicable)
  4. Create an account on the “CVTC Insider” website
  5. View any further entrance requirements on the “CVTC Insider” website
4

East Los Angeles College

Monterey Park, CA

East Los Angeles College (ELAC) opened its doors in 1945 with 117 students and today has more than 33,000 students enrolled. The school offers more than 50 different fields of study resulting in associate degrees, skills certificates, and degrees for transfer. ELAC has a 34:1 student-to-faculty ratio.

Associate of Arts in Marketing

This marketing degree requires 60 credit hours and teaches students about core topics such as  English composition and social and behavioral sciences. Courses for the degree are in subjects including introduction to social media marketing and introduction to business. Students are prepared for careers as entry-level marketing associates, sales representatives, and digital marketing, media, and communication professionals.

Associate of Arts in Marketing Overview

  • Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges
  • Tuition and Fees: $619/semester (in state); $4,064/semester (out of state)
  • Required Credits: 60 credits
  • Program Length: 2 years
  • Learning Format: On-campus, online
  • NCES School Graduation Rate: 33%

Associate of Arts in Marketing Admission Requirements

  • GPA: No minimum
  • Standardized Tests: None
  • Application Fee: $50
  • Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
  • Other Requirements: None

Applying to East Los Angeles College

  1. Submit an online application form
  2. Provide high school and any other applicable education transcripts
  3. Pay the application fee
  4. International students need to meet other requirements listed on the website
5

Ensign College

Salt Lake City, UT

Ensign College was founded in 1886 and today has 1,829 students enrolled. It is founded and sponsored by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and is a member of the Church Educational System. Ensign offers four-year bachelor’s degree programs, as well as associate degree and stand-alone certificate programs in various fields.

Associate of Science in Social Media Marketing

This associate degree and certificate require the completion of 60 credits. Students receive an education in digital marketing and social media marketing strategies. They also learn how to present the ever-important return on investment (ROI) resulting from their social marketing strategies. This prepares graduates for careers in social media marketing content creation, customer service advertising, customer advocacy, and marketing analytics.

Associate of Science in Social Media Marketing Overview

  • Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
  • Tuition: $153/credit for 1-11 credits or $1,828/total for 12-18 credits (Church member); $306/credit for 1-11 credits or $3,565/total for 12-18 credits (non-member)
  • Required Credits: 60 credits
  • Program Length: 2 years
  • Learning Format: On-campus, online
  • NCES School Graduation Rate: 32%

Associate of Science in Social Media Marketing Admission Requirements

  • GPA: No minimum
  • Standardized Tests: None
  • Application Fee: $35
  • Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
  • Other Requirements: Complete ecclesiastical endorsement, non-native English speakers must provide proof of English proficiency

Applying to Ensign College

  1. Create a student account on the school’s website
  2. Complete the online application and pay the application fee
  3. Submit high school and other education transcripts
  4. Review and sign the ecclesiastical honor code
6

Fox Valley Technical College

Appleton, WI

Fox Valley Technical College traces its roots back to 1911 and has more than 11,000 students enrolled in its programs of higher education. Fox Valley reports that 91 percent of its graduates are employed in their field of study within six months after graduation. The school offers 77 associate degree programs, 68 technical diploma programs, 16 apprentice trades, 102 specialized certificates, and over 1,000 non-credit courses and seminars.

Associate of Arts in Marketing

This associate degree is a 63-credit program and educates students in general education courses such as written communication and economics. Required courses teach the principles of marketing and business law. Electives include marketing communication strategy and introduction to entrepreneurship.

Associate of Arts in Marketing Overview

  • Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission.
  • Tuition and Fees: $10,286.51/semester
  • Required Credits: 63 credits
  • Program Length: 2 years
  • Learning Format: On-campus, online
  • NCES School Graduation Rate: 55%

Associate of Arts in Marketing Admission Requirements

  • GPA: No minimum
  • Standardized Tests: Not required
  • Application Fee: $30
  • Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
  • Other Requirements: Skills assessment

Applying to Fox Valley Technical College

  1. Submit an online application
  2. Pay the application fee
  3. Meet the skills assessment requirement via high school GPA, previous associate degree completion, standardized test scores, or placement testing
  4. Submit high school diploma and other education transcripts
  5. Apply for scholarships and financial aid (if applicable)
7

Madison Area Technical College

Madison, WI

Madison Area Technical College started educating students in higher education in 1895 and currently has over 13,000 students enrolled. The school offers over 180 training programs, including more than 140 transfer pathways and noncredit classes. Madison Area Technical College is part of the Wisconsin Technical College System.

Associate Degree in Marketing

This marketing associate degree is available in a hybrid format, which is a combination of online and on-campus attendance and requires 61 credit hours. The program covers social media marketing and advanced social and mobile marketing topics. General education subjects include written communication and mathematics. The degree prepares students for jobs in project management, business development, business communications, and other marketing jobs.

Associate Degree in Marketing Overview

  • Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
  • Tuition: $141/credit (in state); $211.50/credit (out of state)
  • Required Credits: 61 credits
  • Program Length: 2 years
  • Learning Format: Hybrid, online
  • NCES School Graduation Rate: 24%

Associate Degree in Marketing Admission Requirements

  • GPA: No minimum
  • Standardized Tests: None
  • Application Fee: $0
  • Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
  • Other Requirements: None

Applying to Madison Technical College

  1. Submit an online application
  2. Submit high school and other educational transcripts
  3. Submit proof of residency
  4. Apply for scholarships and FAFSA (if applicable)
8

North Shore Community College

Danvers, MA

North Shore Community College has been offering postsecondary education to students since 1965 and currently has almost 5,000 students enrolled. NSCC provides 71 degree and certificate programs in STEM, business, health, IT, and other popular fields.

Associate of Science in Digital and Social Marketing

This digital and social marketing associate degree requires the completion of 60 credits. General education subjects cover topics like English composition and accounting essentials. Concentration courses include videos for social media and beyond, digital marketing, media studies, and other social media topics.

Associate of Science in Digital and Social Marketing Overview

  • Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
  • Tuition and Fees: $223/credit (in state); $455/credit (out of state)
  • Required Credits: 60 credits
  • Program Length: 2 years
  • Learning Format: On-campus, online
  • NCES School Graduation Rate: 25%

Associate of Science in Digital and Social Marketing Admission Requirements

  • GPA: No minimum
  • Standardized Tests: None
  • Application Fee: None
  • Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
  • Other Requirements: Placement testing

Applying to North Shore Community College

  1. Complete your online application
  2. Apply for scholarships and financial aid (if applicable)
  3. Complete NSCC’s Computerized Placement Test (proficiency may be met by SAT/ACT scores)
  4. Submit high school and other education transcripts or copies of Accuplacer/CPT or SAT/ACT score
9

Seminole State College

Sanford, FL

Seminole State College (SSC) was founded in 1966 and currently has over 16,000 students enrolled in higher education degree and certification programs. SSC provides more than 200 degree and certificate programs and offers full-time, part-time, and online learning programs. The student-to-faculty ratio is 27:1.

Associate of Science in Social Media and Marketing

This social media and marketing associate degree requires 60 credits in general education topics, such as communication and algebra, as well as degree topics, such as computer applications, entrepreneurial marketing, and professional selling.

Associate of Science in Social Media and Marketing Overview

  • Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
  • Tuition and Fees: $104.38/credit (in state); $381.57/credit (out of state)
  • Required Credits: 60 credits
  • Program Length: 2 years
  • Learning Format: On-campus, online
  • NCES School Graduation Rate: 47%

Associate of Science in Social Media and Marketing Admission Requirements

  • GPA: No minimum
  • Standardized Tests: None
  • Application Fee: $25
  • Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
  • Other Requirements: None

Applying to Seminole State College

  1. Submit your application online or mail it to the admissions office
  2. Pay the application fee
  3. Provide proof of residency (if applicable)
  4. Submit high school and other educational transcripts
10

Ventura College

Ventura, CA

Ventura College was founded in 1925 and currently has about 14,500 students enrolled. The school provides Associate of Arts and Associate of Science degrees in 33 majors, as well as certificates in 61 areas of study. Ventura’s student-to-faculty ratio is 29:1.

Associate in Science in Social Media Marketing

This Associate in Science in Social Media Marketing requires the completion of 62 credits and includes a certificate of achievement. As part of the degree, you will learn about social media marketing, traditional marketing, and digital content marketing. Core classes can be selected from topics in humanities, mathematics, and American history. The degree prepares grads for jobs such as social media manager, advertising sales representative, and public relations specialist.

Associate in Science in Social Media Marketing Overview

  • Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges
  • Tuition and Fees: $46/unit (in state); $277/unit (out of state)
  • Required Credits: 62 credits
  • Program Length: 2 years
  • Learning Format: Hybrid
  • NCES School Graduation Rate: 38%

Associate in Science in Social Media Marketing Admission Requirements

  • GPA: No minimum
  • Standardized Tests: None
  • Application Fee: $50 (for international students only)
  • Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
  • Other Requirements: None

Applying to Ventura College

  1. Submit the online application
  2. Apply for scholarships and FAFSA or submit the California Dream Act Application (if applicable)
  3. Submit high school and other education transcripts
  4. Complete the residency and supplemental paperwork (if applicable)

What Is a Social Media Marketing Associate Degree?

A social media marketing associate degree provides the knowledge and skills to promote goods and services on a company’s social media platforms to drive traffic and stimulate both engagement and sales from its users or consumers. It typically takes two years to complete associate degree programs at 15 credits per each of the four semesters, for a total of 60 credits.

Upon successful completion of your social media marketing associate degree, you will know how to perform marketing research, develop marketing strategies, and analyze marketing data. You will understand email marketing campaigns, search engine optimization, and the development of marketing and sales strategies. Because social media is so widely used by both private organizations, the job market is wide open for graduates.

How Important Is an Associate Degree in Social Media Marketing?

An Associate Degree in Social Media Marketing is very important if you want to enter the world of business and marketing. Most employers expect a degree as an eligibility prerequisite, so having one puts you at an advantage over other candidates without a degree.

Getting this associate degree prepares you for planning, developing, maintaining, and increasing user traffic and patronage of the company’s goods and services. An Associate Degree in Social Media Marketing will give you access to entry-level positions in social media and other marketing, public relations, retail sales, research, and account management fields.

What Types of Associate Degree Can You Get in Social Media Marketing?

There are four types of associate degrees. The two most common in the social media marketing education world are the Associate of Arts and Associate of Applied Science. The type you will want to pursue will depend on your education and career goals. After successful completion of your associate degree, you may be able to enhance your degree by continuing your education and securing a bachelor’s or master’s degree .

Is It Better to Get an Associate of Arts or Associate of Applied Science in Social Media Marketing?

If you want to transfer to a college or four-year university once you have graduated, an Associate of Arts is the preferred option. If you’re going to start working right after graduating with your associate degree, then an Associate of Applied Science in Social Media Marketing is likely the better choice.

Associate of Arts degrees feature the traditional liberal arts curriculum and are usually pursued with the intention to continue education for a bachelor’s degree. An Associate of Applied Science focuses more on the practical application of mathematical and scientific concepts in social media marketing.

Although you will likely be able to secure employment with either of these associate degrees, the more appropriate one for getting a job in social media marketing right away is the Associate of Applied Science.

What Is the Difference Between a Social Media Marketing Associate Degree and a Social Media Marketing Certificate?

The difference between a social media marketing associate degree and a social media marketing certificate is that a social media marketing certificate requires the completion of fewer credits. These credits can usually be transferred to help make up the total course requirements for an associate degree.

A social media marketing associate degree involves more courses, worth approximately 60 credits. The credits from an Associate Degree in Social Media Marketing can be transferred to a bachelor’s degree program in a related field. Although securing either one may qualify you for entry-level positions, an associate degree is a higher qualification, which is preferable to employers.

How Much Does It Cost to Get an Associate Degree in Social Media Marketing?

According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), an Associate Degree in Social Media Marketing will cost about $11,391 . This includes the costs of tuition, fees, and room and board. This value may fluctuate depending on the applicable rates for in-state and out-of-state criteria. Ensure you check the school’s website for the appropriate costs relevant to you.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Social Media Marketing Associate Degree?

It takes about two years to get a social media marketing associate degree, with each year made up of two semesters. A full-time student will typically take 15 credits per semester to reach the required 60 total credit hours. Studying part-time or at a self-paced rate may extend the length of the program.

How Hard Is It to Get an Associate Degree in Social Media Marketing?

It is somewhat hard to get an Associate Degree in Social Media Marketing. Aside from the time you need to allocate to your studies, which can be a challenge depending on your circumstances, there are also some technical subjects that you will need to master.

Subjects may include digital marketing and digital marketing strategies, business communication, business law, marketing principles, marketing analytics, search engine marketing, strategic planning, and others.

Why Should You Get a Social Media Marketing Associate Degree?

You should get a social media marketing associate degree because employers value degrees. The knowledge and experience gained during the degree program in the use of social media, strategic planning, business digital marketing, and marketing analytics are vital to a successful career in marketing.

Jobs that require this degree include digital marketing positions, marketing assistants, social media associates, and content creators. After accumulating some experience or furthering your education, you may gain access to higher-level marketing positions like those in marketing management.

What Courses Do You Need to Take in an Associate Degree Program in Social Media Marketing?

The college courses you need to take in an associate degree program in social media marketing are social media marketing strategies, principles of marketing, business management, and social media and marketing communications.

Check your school’s pathways to the associate degree you desire. There are many options, including online and on-campus formats, as well as degrees that fall under different names but provide a similar education, such as journalism or mass communications. Pick the program with the courses and format you prefer.

Social Media Marketing Strategies

The college courses in social media marketing strategies will give you hands-on experience in engaging with existing users or customers and attracting new ones via social media. You will learn how to do this while also promoting the company’s culture, mission, and desired tone. Social media marketing strategies will also teach you how to track the success of your efforts with data analytics.

Principles of Marketing

Typically, this course teaches the “4Ps” strategy. These are product, place, promotion, and price. Some will focus on the “7Ps” strategy, which also includes process, people, and physical evidence. Regardless, you will learn the core principles that affect marketing success and how to use them in your daily application of social media marketing.

Business Management

Business management fundamentals are vital for social media marketing professionals, as they involve coordinating and organizing business activities. An understanding and practical application in overseeing operations, helping employees achieve optimal productivity, and monitoring and coaching new employees can provide you with advancement opportunities.

Social Media and Marketing Communications

Social media and marketing communications take place on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and other social media platforms. In this course, you will learn about the fundamentals of social media marketing, like spreading the word about brands, products, and services. Using words, images, and videos on social media to communicate with peers, customers, and potential consumers is crucial in the social media marketing field.

Digital Marketing

College courses in digital marketing will focus specifically on marketing strategies for online technologies and digital channels to promote a company’s products and services. Having knowledge and practical skills in this area will undoubtedly aid your efforts in our fast-developing digital world.

Continuing Education Paths for Social Media Marketing Associate Degree Graduates

Associate degree holders can attend a four-year university to continue their education in social media marketing. Education paths include marketing, journalism, and social media marketing bachelor’s, master’s, and even doctorate degrees .

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What to Look For in the Best Social Media Marketing Associate Degree Programs

The things to look for in the best social media marketing associate degree programs are accreditation, cost, format, curriculum content, and career services. Let’s take a closer look at each of these below.

Accreditation

A degree is a big investment of time and money. Make sure that your selected school is accredited, known, and recognized by employers in the marketing industry. Accreditation is important because it means that the school and program meet a certain standard set by widely-accepted accreditation bodies.

Cost

In addition to the cost of tuition, remember to consider the additional fees associated with the program you’re considering. Check the fees for your specific degree program on the school’s website or by calling the admissions office. Also consider the costs associated with where you will be living, in addition to transportation and food.

Format

Depending on your current commitments and the time you have to dedicate to your studies, the program format will probably be important. If you have to work while you earn your degree, for example, be sure that the class times fit your schedule. Some programs offer hybrid formats, meaning that you can complete some of the course requirements online, on your own schedule.

Curriculum Content

Curriculum content for associate programs in social media marketing will vary. Ensure that the program includes everything you want to learn so that you’ll have clearer paths to employment after graduation. Be sure to check the electives available, too, as these will inevitably be a part of your education.

Career Services

Many schools and universities provide associate degree holders with career services to help them find a job after graduating. Career services may involve a career coach and include portfolio-building, resume-writing, and interviewing tips. Some schools also help place students in valuable internships.

What Is the Most Affordable Social Media Marketing Associate Degree?

The most affordable social media marketing associate degree is from East Los Angeles College, with a tuition of $1,238 for in-state residents. The most affordable out-of-state Associate Degree in Social Media Marketing is from Ensign College, at $3,656. Be sure to check your in-state options, as those are almost always more affordable.

Salary and Job Outlook for Social Media Marketing Associate Degree Graduates

Two professionals high-fiving
Social media marketing is where social, creative, and business messaging connect with consumers.

Social media marketing associate degree graduates have access to a variety of entry-level positions with good salaries. These positions include social media associate, content creator, marketing analyst, sales representative, and email marketing associate. Marketing management jobs may also become available once the professional experience is gained and skills are developed.

How Hard Is It to Get a Job With a Social Media Marketing Associate Degree?

It is not very hard to get a job with a social media marketing associate degree, especially given the increased use of devices, the Internet, and other technologies. There are many social media platforms and channels available today, making social media marketing in high demand.

An Associate Degree in Social Media Marketing will prepare students to be job-ready once they finish school. Many schools provide internships as part of the degree requirement. These internships provide excellent opportunities for degree holders to network and gain hands-on experience. Schools also typically offer additional career services, like help with preparing for interviews and building a solid resume.

What’s the Average Social Media Marketing Associate Degree Salary?

The average salary for social media marketing associate degree holders is about $46,000, according to PayScale. This will likely increase once you have accumulated experience and developed your skills. Jobs in management roles may also open to you during your career, which has a higher average salary of about $68,000 .

What Types of Jobs Can You Get With a Social Media Marketing Associate Degree?

The jobs you have access to with a social media marketing associate degree are copywriter, digital marketing manager, content manager, and web designer, to name a few. Higher-level marketing positions with increased salaries are public relations manager, vice president of communications, and social media marketing manager. With your Associate Degree in Social Media Marketing, you will be able to choose from nearly any industry to work in, as most companies have and value a social media presence today.

Social Media Marketing Degree Jobs

  • Marketing Assistants
  • Digital Marketing Managers
  • Social Media Marketing Managers
  • Content Managers
  • Search Engine Optimization (SEO) Specialists

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How Much Money Can You Make With an Associate Degree in Social Media Marketing?

You can make a salary of between $45,000 and $150,000 with a social media marketing associate degree. High-paying careers in the field include social media manager, search engine optimization specialist, public relations manager, and marketing communication manager. An Associate Degree in Social Media Marketing will provide you with the knowledge and skills to unlock excellent opportunities in marketing as you build your career.

Highest-Paying Social Media Marketing Associate Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview

Social Media Marketing Associate Degree Jobs Average Salary
Vice President of Communications $149,843
Marketing Communications Manager $133,380
Social Media Manager $133,380
Public Relations Manager $119,860
Search Engine Optimization (SEO) Specialist $76,080

Best Jobs for Social Media Marketing Associate Degree Grads

The best social media marketing associate degree jobs may include your dream career in marketing, and they have excellent salaries. Earning an Associate Degree in Marketing can provide a pathway to these positions, including entry-level marketing management jobs.

1

Vice President of Communications

Average Salary: $149,843

The vice president of communications tends to be one of the higher-level executives in a company. They have an influence on advertising and branding tactics and are typically responsible for all official communications from the company. They may lead the public relations, social media, and marketing teams.

2

Marketing Communication Managers

Average Salary: $133,380

Marketing communication managers develop and supervise all communication and marketing strategies for a company. This includes everything from email campaigns and trade show appearances to social media efforts. It is one of the higher-level marketing positions in a company.

3

Social Media Managers

Average Salary: $133,380

Social media managers enhance brand management and customer engagement in a company. Their job involves crafting social media strategies around content posted on social media using videos, messages, imagery, and other online content. This is one of the higher-level marketing positions within a company.

4

Public Relations Managers

Average Salary: $119,860

Public relations managers manage a company’s brand image and interactions with the public through media outlets and other channels. They are responsible for releasing the company’s news and other relevant information. This is another example of a higher-level marketing position within a company.

5

Search Engine Optimization (SEO) Specialists

Average Salary: $76,080

This can be an exciting career in marketing if you are interested in search engine marketing and analysis. Search engine optimization specialists develop optimization strategies with the intention of increasing website search engine result rankings and website traffic. They execute paid campaigns to increase brand awareness and they collect and analyze the results from tests conducted.

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Is an Associate Degree in Social Media Marketing Worth It?

Yes, an Associate Degree in Social Media Marketing is worth it. An Associate Degree in Social Media Marketing is achievable, with affordable options at some excellent, reputable schools. Scholarships, grants, and financial aid are available from the federal government and the schools, themselves.

This field of marketing offers a variety of excellent job options for using your creative, strategic, and measurable social media marketing skills. Social media marketers tend to be happy with their career choice, especially with the potential for professional growth.

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Social Media Marketing Associate Degree FAQ

Can I get a job in social media marketing without an associate degree?

Yes, you can get a job in social media marketing without an associate degree, although it may be more difficult. Everyone claims to be a social media expert, so having the education to back your career goals is beneficial and will be viewed favorably by employers.

Can a bootcamp help me get a social media marketing job?

Yes, a bootcamp can help you get a social media marketing job. Bootcamp graduates have landed jobs at some of the top global companies like Amazon, Google, Facebook, Microsoft, and JPMorgan Chase.

What social media platforms are most used in social media marketing?

Facebook is most used in social media marketing. According to Statista, most consumers prefer the use of Facebook for marketing purposes. Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube, and Twitter are also among the most popular social media platforms.

Can I learn social media marketing for free?

Yes, you can learn social media marketing for free through any of the various free resources available online. Some of these free resources include certificates or certifications .

About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication.

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Simone Du Toit

About the author: Simone has worked in management for over 20 years and uses her experience hiring, coaching, and supporting others to help Career Karma readers thrive in their new careers. Along with her managerial experience, Simone has taught English as a second language to students in Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia. She holds certificates in Retail Leadership Development and Teaching English as a Foreign Language.

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